Allyssa is a dance artist, choreographer and registered dance/movement therapist. Since the moment she could stand, Allyssa has been dancing and performing. She was trained in Puerto Rico, where she grew up, in a variety of styles such as creative movement, ballet, modern, experimental jazz, ballroom, hip-hop, funk, afro-caribbean and improvisation. Upon moving to New York City, Allyssa fell in love with yoga, a practice that continues to strengthen the dialogue and relationship between her body, mind, and soul. 

 

Aware of the therapeutic role that dance and yoga has had in her life, Allyssa dove headfirst into the science of dance/movement therapy in the hopes of providing others the opportunity and space to discover and experience the healing nature of expressive movement. Currently, she is engaged in the exploration of the fluid, substantial, cellular aspect of the Self as a means to better balance the potential state of Being and the active state of Doing. She is particularly interested in the role of embodiment and movement in supporting the ability to delve deeper into other expressive arts, such as writing.

 

When not working throughout the city, providing dance/movement therapy and dance classes to children, teens, and adults, Allyssa spends her time researching and exploring a variety of somatic practices including but not limited to Contact Improvisation, 5Rhythms, Continuum, Body-Mind Centering, and Authentic Movement. Allyssa is most blissful connecting with others, witnessing and being witnessed, on the dance floor. Forever an island girl, Allyssa hopes to share her home and her knowledge in upcoming retreats.